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Dover to Calais Ferry Crossing for Coach Passengers

The Dover to Calais ferry is one of the most popular ways for coach passengers to travel between the UK and France. This scenic and convenient route across the English Channel offers a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Below is a detailed breakdown of what coach passengers can expect from the journey.

1. Arriving at the Port of Dover
Location: Dover Ferry Terminal, Eastern Docks, Dover, Kent, UK.
Check-In Procedure:
Coaches typically arrive at the Dover Ferry Terminal around 60–90 minutes before the scheduled departure.
The driver will check in the entire group at the ferry operator’s ticket booth and receive boarding instructions.
Passengers remain on the coach while it proceeds through UK Border Control for passport checks.

2. UK and French Border Control
Before boarding, coach passengers must go through two border checkpoints:
UK Border Control: Passports and travel documents are checked before leaving the UK.
French Border Control: Since the UK is no longer part of the EU, passengers undergo additional passport checks by French authorities at Dover before boarding the ferry.
Tip: Ensure all passengers have valid passports and any necessary visas before travel to avoid delays.

3. Boarding the Ferry
Once the coach has passed both border controls, it will queue in the designated coach lane for boarding.
Passengers usually remain on the coach as it is driven onto the ferry and parked in the lower vehicle deck.
Once parked, passengers must exit the coach and move to the passenger decks for the crossing (staying in vehicles is not permitted for safety reasons).

4. Onboard Experience
The journey from Dover to Calais takes approximately 90 minutes, and during this time, passengers can enjoy a range of onboard facilities.
Facilities Available on Board
✅ Seating Areas – Spacious lounges with comfortable seating, ideal for relaxing.
✅ Restaurants & Cafés – Options vary by ferry operator but typically include self-service restaurants, bars, and coffee shops.
✅ Duty-Free Shopping – Passengers can browse and purchase tax-free items, including perfumes, alcohol, chocolates, and souvenirs.
✅ Outdoor Decks – Enjoy panoramic views of the English Channel and the famous White Cliffs of Dover.
✅ Wi-Fi & Charging Points – Some ferries provide Wi-Fi access and charging ports for electronic devices.
✅ Children’s Play Areas – Some ferries offer small play zones to keep young passengers entertained.
Tip: It’s recommended to keep personal belongings with you, as access to the coach is restricted during the crossing.

5. Disembarkation in Calais
About 15 minutes before arrival, an announcement will inform passengers to return to their coach on the vehicle deck.
The coach will drive off the ferry once it is safely docked at Calais Port Terminal.
Passengers remain seated as the coach proceeds through French customs if required.
Important Travel Tips
🔹 Travel Documents – Ensure all passengers have their passports and visas ready for border checks.
🔹 Currency – Onboard purchases can be made in GBP (£) or Euros (€), and card payments are widely accepted.
🔹 Luggage – Keep essentials with you, as access to the coach is restricted during the journey.
🔹 Seasickness – If prone to motion sickness, consider bringing medication or sitting in a stable area of the ferry.